Electronic devices and corresponding methods for redirecting event notifications in multi-person content presentation environments

ABSTRACT

An electronic device includes a communication device electronically communicating with a content presentation companion device operating as a primary display for the electronic device and at least one augmented reality companion device. One or more sensors detect multiple persons within an environment while the content presentation companion device operates as the primary display. One or more processors redirect an event notification intended for presentation on the primary display to the augmented reality companion device while both the content presentation companion device operates as the primary display for the electronic device and the multiple persons are within the environment of the electronic device. When communicating with two augmented reality companion devices, the one or more processors can direct subtitles associated with a content offering, sometimes in different languages, to at least a first augmented reality companion device and a second augmented reality companion device.

CROSS REFERENCE TO PRIOR APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority and benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119 fromChinese Patent Application No. 202110672481.0, filed Jun. 17, 2021,which is incorporated by reference by rule in accordance with 37 CFR §1.57.

BACKGROUND Technical Field

This disclosure relates generally to electronic devices, and moreparticularly to electronic devices configured to electronically generateor receive notifications.

Background Art

The technology associated with portable electronic devices, such assmartphones and tablet computers, is continually improving. Illustratingby example, while not too long ago such devices included only grey scaleliquid crystal diode displays with large, blocky pixels, modernsmartphones, tablet computers, and even smart watches include organiclight emitting diode (OLED) displays with incredibly small pixels.

While these OLED displays offer extremely high contrast ratios capableof presenting high dynamic range images and videos, their size remainslimited so that these devices can be easily carried in a hand, pocket,or backpack. To enable content received by these devices to be moreeasily seen, such as when a group wants to watch the content forexample, many portable electronic devices include a content redirectionfeature. Using the content redirection feature, a person may stream amovie through a smartphone, but then redirect the movie to a largerdisplay situated near the smartphone so that a family or other group canwatch the movie on the larger display. While great for watching themovie, the redirection feature can affect other features of the devicesuch as notification delivery. It would be advantageous to have animproved electronic device with user interface features allowing forimproved content delivery.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer toidentical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate viewsand which together with the detailed description below are incorporatedin and form part of the specification, serve to further illustratevarious embodiments and to explain various principles and advantages allin accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 illustrates one explanatory augmented reality companion device inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates one explanatory electronic device in accordance withone or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates one explanatory content presentation companion devicein accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates one or more explanatory method steps in accordancewith one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates one or more embodiments explanatory method steps inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates one explanatory method in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates one or more explanatory method steps in accordancewith one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates another explanatory method in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the disclosure

FIG. 9 illustrates various embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates various other embodiments of the disclosure.

Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures areillustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily beendrawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements inthe figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help toimprove understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Before describing in detail embodiments that are in accordance with thepresent disclosure, it should be observed that the embodiments resideprimarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus componentsrelated to redirecting an event notification intended for presentationon a primary display of an electronic device to an augmented realitycompanion device when multiple persons are within an environment of theelectronic device or, alternatively, delivering subtitles to augmentedreality companion devices in accordance with user language preferences.Any process descriptions or blocks in flow charts should be understoodas representing modules, segments, or portions of code that include oneor more executable instructions for implementing specific logicalfunctions or steps in the process. Alternate implementations areincluded, and it will be clear that functions may be executed out oforder from that shown or discussed, including substantially concurrentlyor in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved.Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have beenrepresented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings,showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understandingthe embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure thedisclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

Embodiments of the disclosure do not recite the implementation of anycommonplace business method aimed at processing business information,nor do they apply a known business process to the particulartechnological environment of the Internet. Moreover, embodiments of thedisclosure do not create or alter contractual relations using genericcomputer functions and conventional network operations. Quite to thecontrary, embodiments of the disclosure employ methods that, whenapplied to electronic device and/or user interface technology, improvethe functioning of the electronic device itself by and improving theoverall user experience to overcome problems specifically arising in therealm of the technology associated with electronic device userinteraction.

It will be appreciated that embodiments of the disclosure describedherein may be comprised of one or more conventional processors andunique stored program instructions that control the one or moreprocessors to implement, in conjunction with certain non-processorcircuits, some, most, or all of the functions of redirecting eventnotifications and/or sending subtitles to an augmented reality companiondevice as described herein. The non-processor circuits may include, butare not limited to, a radio receiver, a radio transmitter, signaldrivers, clock circuits, power source circuits, and user input devices.As such, these functions may be interpreted as steps of a method toperform the redirection of event notifications and/or transmission ofsubtitles to the augmented reality companion device.

Alternatively, some or all functions could be implemented by a statemachine that has no stored program instructions, or in one or moreapplication specific integrated circuits (ASICs), in which each functionor some combinations of certain of the functions are implemented ascustom logic. Of course, a combination of the two approaches could beused. Thus, methods and means for these functions have been describedherein. Further, it is expected that one of ordinary skill,notwithstanding possibly significant effort and many design choicesmotivated by, for example, available time, current technology, andeconomic considerations, when guided by the concepts and principlesdisclosed herein will be readily capable of generating such softwareinstructions and programs and ASICs with minimal experimentation.

Embodiments of the disclosure are now described in detail. Referring tothe drawings, like numbers indicate like parts throughout the views. Asused in the description herein and throughout the claims, the followingterms take the meanings explicitly associated herein, unless the contextclearly dictates otherwise: the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includesplural reference, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on.” Relationalterms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be usedsolely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or actionwithout necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationshipor order between such entities or actions.

As used herein, components may be “operatively coupled” when informationcan be sent between such components, even though there may be one ormore intermediate or intervening components between, or along theconnection path. The terms “substantially”, “essentially”,“approximately”, “about” or any other version thereof, are defined asbeing close to as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and inone non-limiting embodiment the term is defined to be within tenpercent, in another embodiment within five percent, in anotherembodiment within 1 percent and in another embodiment within one-halfpercent. The term “coupled” as used herein is defined as connected,although not necessarily directly and not necessarily mechanically.Also, reference designators shown herein in parenthesis indicatecomponents shown in a figure other than the one in discussion. Forexample, talking about a device (10) while discussing figure A wouldrefer to an element, 10, shown in figure other than figure A.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide an augmented reality companiondevice, which is configured as a pair of augmented reality glasses in anexplanatory embodiment, which can receive information from an electronicdevice when the electronic device is redirecting its primary display toa content presentation companion device. Advantageously, this allows theinformation to be delivered only to intended recipients, rather than toa group who may be consuming the content on the content presentationcompanion device.

The information can take a variety of forms. In one or more embodiments,the information comprises an event notification, which alerts the userto the fact that a notification has been generated or received. Examplesof event notifications include notifications that an email has beenreceived, notifications that a text message has been received, newsalerts, weather alerts, news that new social media posts have been made,and so forth. In other embodiments, the information can comprisesubtitles associated with content offerings. In some embodiments, audiocontent is redirected along with the information. If, for example, twopeople are watching a movie while wearing augmented reality glasses, andthose people speak two different languages, one or more processors of anelectronic device can cause a communication device to electronicallydelivery subtitles associated with the content in preferred languages tothe augmented reality glasses without cluttering the display of thecontent presentation companion device. Optionally, audio in theirpreferred language or in another language can be delivered along withthe subtitles as well. Other examples of such information will bedescribed below. Still others will be obvious to those of ordinary skillin the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

In one or more embodiments, one or more processors of an electronicdevice detect that a communication device of the electronic device is incommunication with both a content presentation companion deviceoperating as a primary display for the electronic device and at leastone augmented reality companion device, one example of which areaugmented reality glasses. One or more sensors then detect multiplepersons being present within an environment of the electronic devicewhile the content presentation companion device is operating as theprimary display for the electronic device. When this occurs, the one ormore processors redirect an event notification intended for presentationon the primary display of the electronic device to the augmented realitycompanion device while the multiple persons are in the environment.

To illustrate, consider the situation where a family is sitting in aliving room around a large television screen. The mother of the familycauses a movie to be streamed to her smartphone. Since the screen is toosmall for the family to comfortably watch together, she redirects themovie from the smartphone to the television screen, which serves as acontent presentation companion device by functioning as the primarydisplay for the smartphone.

Ordinarily, if the mother's employer sent a work email or text messageto the mother via her smartphone, an event notification would begenerated indicating that the email or text message had been received.Ordinarily, this event notification would be presented on the display ofthe smartphone. However, the redirection of display functionality to thecontent presentation companion device would ordinarily now cause theevent notification to be presented on the television screen. If thishappened at a key point in the movie, the whole family would be annoyeddue to the interruption of the action for a work email or text messageintended only for the mother.

Advantageously, using embodiments of the disclosure, the smartphone usesone or more sensors to detect that multiple persons, i.e., the family inthis example, are within the environment of the electronic devicedefined by the living room. When the mother is using an augmentedreality companion device, such as by wearing augmented reality glasses,one or more processors of the smartphone detect that the communicationdevice of the smartphone is electronically in communication with boththe television screen and the augmented reality glasses. Accordingly, inone or more embodiments the one or more processors will redirect theevent notification from the television screen to the augmented realityglasses so that only the mother sees the event notification. Thisresults in the intended recipient of the event notification seeing theevent notification, thereby allowing the rest of the family to watch themovie without interruption.

Embodiments of the disclosure can be used in other ways as well. In oneor more other embodiments one or more processors of an electronic devicecause a communication device to electronically delivery a contentoffering such as a movie, video, television show, webpage, email, orapplication interface, to a content presentation companion device forpresentation to an environment of the electronic device. The one or moreprocessors also detect the communication device electronically being incommunication with both a first augmented reality companion device and asecond augmented reality companion device.

One or more sensors of the electronic device then identify a firstperson operating the first augmented reality companion device and asecond person operating the second augmented reality companion device.The one or more processors then determine a first language preference ofthe first person and a second language preference of the second person.The one or more processors then cause the communication device toelectronically deliver first subtitles associated with the content inthe first language preference to the first augmented reality companiondevice and second subtitles associated with the content in the secondlanguage preference to the second augmented reality companion device.

To illustrate, consider the situation where two people are sitting in aroom where one person is streaming an American movie with Englishdialogue from a smartphone to a large television screen. Each person iswearing augmented reality glasses, which are configured as augmentedreality companion devices to the smartphone. Additionally, each personis learning a different language, with a first person learning Frenchand a second person learning Spanish. Accordingly, using a menu or otherdevice settings, the first person sets a first language preference toFrench and a second language preference for the other person to Spanish.

One or more processors of the smartphone detect that the communicationdevice of the smartphone is electronically in communication with each ofthe television screen (to project the content) and the first pair ofaugmented reality glasses and the second pair of augmented realityglasses. One or more sensors of the electronic device identify the firstperson and the second person. The one or more processors determine, fromthe user settings, that the first language preference of the firstperson is French and the second language preference of the second personis Spanish. Accordingly, the one or more processors cause thecommunication device of the smartphone to deliver first subtitles to thefirst pair of augmented reality glasses in French and second subtitlesto the second pair of augmented reality glasses in Spanish. Each persongets to hear the dialogue of the movie in English while reading thelanguage they are learning, but without disrupting the other person'senjoyment of the movie and learning experience.

Embodiments of the disclosure contemplate that when an electronicdevice, such as a smartphone or tablet computer, is electronically incommunication with a companion display device, multiple people may bewatching the companion display device. This can occur whenever acompanion device is being used as the primary display for the electronicdevice. When event notifications are received, in prior art systems theowner of the smartphone would only have two options in managing suchevent notifications: First, they could transition the electronic deviceto a “do not disturb” mode of operation to prevent the eventnotifications from being displayed to the group and distracting from thecontent being presented on the companion display device. The problemwith this is that the owner of the electronic device will at leasttemporarily miss event notifications, which may be time sensitive orimportant. Additionally, the owner of the electronic device may feellike they are missing out on full use of their electronic device.

Second, the owner of the electronic device can simply allow eventnotifications to be presented on the companion display device just asthey would ordinarily be presented on the display of the electronicdevice. This option is problematic as well, as the other peopleconsuming the content at the companion display device are continuallydistracted by the presentation of event notifications. Additionally, theprivacy of owner of the electronic device can be compromised if eventnotifications containing sensitive information are presented to thegroup.

While some people are fortunate enough to have an additional companionelectronic device, such as a smart watch capable of presenting eventnotifications, many cannot afford such an option. Additionally, theowner of the companion electronic device would need to turn theirattention away from the companion display device any time an eventnotification was delivered. They would therefore not be able tosimultaneously enjoy the content on the companion display device whilechecking the event notifications.

Advantageously, embodiments of the disclosure provide a solution tothese issues by using augmented reality glasses as an augmented realitycompanion device, thereby allowing an owner of an electronic device toremain connected to their electronic device while consuming content on acompanion electronic device such as an external display.

In one or more embodiments, an electronic device determines that theelectronic device is connected to an external display in a contentsharing mode, such as when the electronic device is in a contentredirection mode or a “desktop” mode where the external display servesas the primary display for the electronic device. The electronic deviceadditionally determines that the electronic device is in communicationwith augmented reality glasses. The electronic device determines thatcontent on the external display is being consumed by more than one userin addition to the owner of the electronic device. In one or moreembodiments, this occurs by capturing pictures of the environment todetermine multiple persons are within the environment.

In one or more embodiments, the electronic device determines that anowner of the electronic device is wearing augmented reality glasses. Theelectronic device determines that an event notification is about to bedisplayed. One or more processors of the electronic device then activelyroute private event notifications to the augmented reality glasses inresponse to such situations.

In one or more embodiments, this active routing occurs as a function ofa preconfigured or user selectable private notifications list. Each listitem in the preconfigured or user selectable private notifications listcould be a new message notice, an incoming call notice, a notice from aspecific application, and so forth.

In other embodiments, the active routing occurs as a function of atarget display decision-making mechanism based upon a privatenotifications list. For example, if an electronic mail message isdirected to the whole group consuming the content with the companiondisplay device, the decision-making mechanism can route the eventnotification indicating the electronic mail message has been received tothe companion display device. By contrast, if the electronic mailmessage were directed only to the owner of the electronic device, thedecision-making mechanism may direct the message to the owner'saugmented reality glasses.

In still another embodiment, the active routing occurs as a function ofan action based upon a target display decision. Private eventnotifications and content would then be directed to augmented realityglasses, while public event notification could be routed to anotherdisplay or another device.

In other embodiments, the augmented reality glasses are used for thedelivery of subtitles corresponding to the content being consumed on thecompanion display device. In such an embodiment, an electronic devicedetermines that it is electronically connected to a companion displaydevice functioning as the primary display of the electronic device. Theelectronic device then determines that more than one person in additionto the owner of the electronic device is consuming the content beingdelivered to the companion display device.

The electronic device then determines that it is electronicallyconnected to more than one pair of augmented reality glasses apart fromthe augmented reality glasses of the owner. The electronic devicedetermines that content being rendered on the companion display devicesupports subtitles in more than one format, e.g., in more than onelanguage. One or more processors of the electronic device determinelanguage preferences for each user wearing augmented reality glasses.This can be done using pre-configured settings or dynamic detection ofthe language by processing audio received by a microphone using speechrecognition.

When the electronic device determines that multiple users are wearingdifferent augmented reality glasses that are electronically incommunication with the electronic device, one or more processors of theelectronic device route preferred subtitles (different languages) forindividual users based upon their preferences.

Illustrating by example, if a Chinese person and an Indian person arewatching a movie streamed to the electronic device and delivered to thecompanion display devices that includes dialogue in English, one or moreprocessors of the electronic device may deliver subtitles in Mandarin tothe augmented reality glasses being worn by the Chinese person and othersubtitles in Hindi to the augmented reality glasses being worn by theIndian person. It should be noted that this concept could be extended tocater to other situations supporting multiple languages such as gamescores, song lyrics, and so forth. Other situations in which it would beadvantageous to route subtitles in different languages to augmentedreality glasses in communication with an electronic device directingcontent offerings to a companion display device will be obvious to thoseof ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

Turning now to FIG. 1 , illustrated therein is one explanatory augmentedreality companion device 100 configured in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the disclosure. In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 1, the augmented reality companion device 100 comprises augmented realityglasses. However, this is for explanatory purposes only, as theaugmented reality companion device 100 could be configured in any numberof other ways as well. Illustrating by example, the augmented realitycompanion device 100 could also be configured as any of sunglasses,goggles, masks, shields, or visors. Other forms of the augmented realitycompanion device 100 will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in theart having the benefit of this disclosure.

The augmented reality companion device 100 of FIG. 1 includes a frame101 and one or more stems 102,103. Here, the one or more stems 102,103comprise a first stem 102 and a second stem 103. One or more lenses104,105 can be disposed within the frame 101. The lenses 104,105 can beprescription or non-prescription, and can be clear, tinted, or dark. Inone or more embodiments the stems 102,103 are pivotable from a firstposition where they are situated adjacent to, and parallel with, theframe 101, to a second, radially displaced open position shown in FIG. 1. However, in other embodiments the stems 102,103 may be fixed relativeto the frame 101. In still other embodiments, such as might be the caseif the augmented reality companion device 100 were configured asgoggles, the stems 102,103 may be flexible or soft. For example, thestems of goggles are frequently elasticized fabric, which is soft,flexible, pliable, and stretchy. Other types of stems 102,103 will beobvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of thisdisclosure.

In one or more embodiments the stems 102,103 attach to the frame 101 ata first end 108,109 and extend distally from the frame 101 to a second,distal end 110,126. In one embodiment, each stem 102,103 includes atemple portion 106 and an ear engagement portion 107. The temple portion106 is the portion of the stem 102,103 passing from the frame 101 pastthe temple of a wearer, while the ear engagement portion 107 engages thewearer's ear to retain the augmented reality glasses to the wearer'shead.

Since the augmented reality companion device 100 is configured as anelectronic device, one or both of the frame 101 and the stems 102,103can comprise one or more electrical components. These electricalcomponents are shown illustratively in a schematic block diagram 125 inFIG. 1 . It will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art havingthe benefit of this disclosure that the electrical components andassociated modules can be used in different combinations, with somecomponents and modules included and others omitted. Components ormodules can be included or excluded based upon need or application.

The electronic components can include one or more processors 111. Theone or more processors 111 can be disposed in one or both of the stems102,103 or the frame 101. The one or more processors 111 can be operablewith a memory 112. The one or more processors 111, which may be any ofone or more microprocessors, programmable logic, application specificintegrated circuit device, or other similar device, are capable ofexecuting program instructions and methods described herein. The programinstructions and methods may be stored either on-board in the one ormore processors 111, or in the memory 112, or in other computer readablemedia coupled to the one or more processors 111.

The one or more processors 111 can be configured to operate the variousfunctions of the augmented reality companion device 100, and also toexecute software or firmware applications and modules that can be storedin a computer readable medium, such as memory 112. The one or moreprocessors 111 execute this software or firmware, in part, to providedevice functionality. The memory 112 may include either or both staticand dynamic memory components, may be used for storing both embeddedcode and user data.

In one or more embodiments, the augmented reality companion device 100also includes an optional wireless communication device 113. Whereincluded, the wireless communication device 113 is operable with the oneor more processors 111, and is used to facilitate electroniccommunication with one or more electronic devices or servers or othercommunication devices across a network. Note that it is possible tocombine the one or more processors 111, the memory 112, and the wirelesscommunication device 113 into a single device, or alternatively intodevices having fewer parts while retaining the functionality of theconstituent parts.

The wireless communication device 113, which may be one of a receiver ortransmitter, and may alternatively be a transceiver, operates inconjunction with the one or more processors 111 to electronicallycommunicate through a communication network. For example, in oneembodiment, the wireless communication device 113 can be configured tocommunicate through a traditional cellular network. Other examples ofnetworks with which the communication circuit may communicate includeproprietary networks and direct communication networks. In otherembodiments, the wireless communication device 113 can communicate withnear field or local area networks, infrared communication circuits,magnetic field modulation circuits, and Wi-Fi circuits. In one or moreembodiments, the wireless communication device 113 can be configured toprovide messaging functionality to deliver electronic messages to remotedevices.

A battery 114 or other energy storage device can be included to providepower for the various components of the augmented reality companiondevice 100. While a battery 114 is shown in FIG. 1 , it will be obviousto those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of thisdisclosure that other energy storage devices can be used instead of thebattery 114, including a micro fuel cell or an electrochemicalcapacitor. The battery 114 can include a lithium ion cell, lithiumpolymer cell, or a nickel metal hydride cell, such cells havingsufficient energy capacity, wide operating temperature range, largenumber of charging cycles, and long useful life. The battery 114 mayalso include overvoltage and overcurrent protection and chargingcircuitry. In one embodiment, the battery 114 comprises a small, lithiumpolymer cell.

In one or more embodiments, a photovoltaic device 115, such as a solarcell, can be included to recharge the battery 114. In one embodiment,the photovoltaic device 115 can be disposed along the temple portion 106of the stems 102,103. In this illustrative embodiment, two solar cellsare disposed in the temple portion 106 of each stem 102,103,respectively.

Other components 116 can be optionally included in the augmented realitycompanion device 100 as well. For example, in one embodiment one or moremicrophones can be included as audio capture devices 117. These audiocapture devices can be operable with the one or more processors 111 toreceive voice input. Additionally, in one or more embodiments the audiocapture devices 117 can capture ambient audio noise. Signalscorresponding to captured audio can be transmitted to an electronicdevice in communication with the augmented reality companion device 100or a server or cloud-computing device. The other component 116 canadditionally include loudspeakers for delivering audio content to a userwearing the augmented reality companion device 110.

The other components 116 can also include a motion generation device forproviding haptic notifications or vibration notifications to a user. Forexample, a piezoelectric transducer, rotational motor, or otherelectromechanical device can be configured to impart a force orvibration upon the temple portion 106 of the stems 102,103, oralternatively along the frame 101. The motion generation device canprovide a thump, bump, vibration, or other physical sensation to theuser. The one or more processors 111 can be configured to actuate themotion generation device to deliver a tactile or vibration output aloneor in combination with other outputs such as audible outputs.

Similarly, in one or more embodiments the eyewear can include a videocapture device 118 such as an imager. The imager can be disposed withinthe frame 101 or stems 102,103. In one or more embodiments, the videocapture device 118 can function as a to detect changes in opticalintensity, color, light, or shadow in the near vicinity of the augmentedreality companion device 100. As with the audio capture device 117,captured video information can be transmitted to an electronic device, aremote server, or cloud-computing device.

Other sensors 119 can be optionally included in the augmented realitycompanion device 100. One example of such a sensor is a globalpositioning system device for determining where the augmented realitycompanion device 100 is located. The global positioning system devicecan communicate with a constellation of earth orbiting satellites or anetwork of terrestrial base stations to determine an approximatelocation. While a global positioning system device is one example of alocation determination module, it will be clear to those of ordinaryskill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure that otherlocation determination devices, such as electronic compasses orgyroscopes, could be used as well.

The other sensors 119 can also include an optional user interface. Theuser interface can be used, for example, to activate the circuitcomponents or turn them OFF, control sensitivity of the other sensors119, and so forth. The user interface, where included, can be operablewith the one or more processors 111 to deliver information to, andreceive information from, a user. The user interface can include arocker switch, slider pad, button, touch-sensitive surface, or othercontrols, and optionally a voice command interface. These variouscomponents can be integrated together.

In one or more embodiments, an audio output device 120, such as aloudspeaker or other transducer, can deliver audio output to a user. Forexample, piezoelectric transducers can be operably disposed within thestems 102,103. Actuation of the piezoelectric transducers can cause thestems 102,103 to vibrate, thereby emitting acoustic output. Moretraditional audio output devices 120, such as loudspeakers, can be usedas well.

The other components 116 can optionally include a haptic deviceproviding haptic feedback to a user. The haptic device can include amotion generation device to deliver a tactile response to the user. Forexample, a piezoelectric transducer or other electromechanical devicecan be included in the stems 102,103. The transducer can actuate toimpart a force upon the user's head to provide a thump, bump, vibration,or other physical sensation to the user. The inclusion of both the audiooutput device 120 and the haptic device allows both audible and tactilefeedback to be delivered.

In one or more embodiments, the augmented reality companion device 100includes an augmented reality image presentation device 121 operable todeliver augmented reality imagery to a user. The augmented reality imagepresentation device 121 can be operable with a projector 122. In theillustrative embodiment of FIG. 1 , the frame 101 supports the projector122. In one or more embodiments the projector 122 is configured todeliver images to a holographic optical element when the augmentedreality companion device 100 is operating in an augmented reality modeof operation.

In one embodiment, the projector 122 is a modulated light projectoroperable to project modulated light images along a surface orholographic optical element. In another embodiment, the projector 122 isa thin micro projector. In another embodiment, the projector 122 cancomprise a laser projector display module. Other types of projectorswill be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefitof this disclosure.

In one or more embodiments, the projector 122 can include a lens and aspatial light modulator configured to manipulate light to produceimages. The projector 122 can include a light source, such as a singlewhite light emitting diode, multiple separate color light emittingdiodes, or multiple separate color laser diodes that deliver visiblelight to the spatial light modulator through a color combiner. Theaugmented reality image presentation device 121 can drive the spatiallight modulator to modulate the light to produce images. The spatiallight modulator can be optically coupled (e.g., by free spacepropagation) to the lens and/or a beam steerer. Where used, a beamsteerer serves to steer a spatially modulated light beam emanating fromthe spatial light modulator through the lens to create images.

In one or more embodiments, the augmented reality companion device 100includes a companion device display integration manager 124. Whenanother device transmits event notifications, subtitles, or othercontextual information to the augmented reality companion device 100,the companion device display integration manager delivers thatinformation to the augmented reality image presentation device 121 forpresentation to the user as an augmented reality experience via theprojector 122. Illustrating by example, when another electronic devicein communication with the augmented reality companion device 100redirected an event notification intended for presentation on acompanion device serving as a primary display for the electronic deviceto the augmented reality companion device 100 while the electronicdevice detects multiple persons within its environment, the companiondevice display integration manager 124 delivers those eventnotifications to the augmented reality image presentation device 121 forpresentation as an augmented reality experience to the user via theprojector 122. Similarly, when another electronic device deliverssubtitles associated with a content offering in accordance with alanguage preference of a user wearing the augmented reality companiondevice 100, the companion device display integration manager 124delivers those event notifications to the augmented reality imagepresentation device 121 for presentation as an augmented realityexperience to the user via the projector 122. This will be illustratedin more detail below with reference to FIGS. 4, 5, and 8 .

The augmented reality companion device 100 of FIG. 1 can operate as astand-alone electronic device in one or more embodiments. However, inother embodiments, the augmented reality companion device 100 canoperate in tandem with an electronic device, via wireless electroniccommunication using the wireless communication device 113 or via a wiredconnection channel 123 to form an augmented reality system. Turning nowto FIG. 2 , illustrated therein is one such electronic device 200.

The electronic device 200 of FIG. 2 is a portable electronic device, andis shown as a smartphone for illustrative purposes. However, it shouldbe obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit ofthis disclosure that other electronic devices may be substituted for theexplanatory smart phone of FIG. 2 . For example, the electronic device200 could equally be a conventional desktop computer, palm-top computer,a tablet computer, a gaming device, a media player, or other device.

This illustrative electronic device 200 includes a display 201, whichmay optionally be touch-sensitive. Users can deliver user input to thedisplay 201, which serves as a user interface for the electronic device200. In one embodiment, users can deliver user input to the display 201of such an embodiment by delivering touch input from a finger, stylus,or other objects disposed proximately with the display 201. In oneembodiment, the display 201 is configured as an active matrix organiclight emitting diode (AMOLED) display. However, it should be noted thatother types of displays, including liquid crystal displays, would beobvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of thisdisclosure.

The explanatory electronic device 200 of FIG. 2 also includes a devicehousing 202. In one embodiment, the device housing 202 includes twohousing members, namely, a first device housing 203 that is coupled to asecond device housing 204 by a hinge 205 such that the first devicehousing 203 is pivotable about the hinge 205 relative to the seconddevice housing 204 between a closed position and an axially displacedopen position. In other embodiments, the device housing 202 will berigid and will include no hinge. In still other embodiments, the devicehousing 202 will be manufactured from a flexible material such that itcan be bent and deformed. Where the device housing 202 is manufacturedfrom a flexible material or where the device housing 202 includes ahinge, the display 201 can be manufactured on a flexible substrate suchthat it bends. In one or more embodiments, the display 201 is configuredas a flexible display that is coupled to the first device housing 203and the second device housing 204, spanning the hinge 205. Features canbe incorporated into the device housing 202, including control devices,connectors, and so forth.

Also shown in FIG. 2 is an explanatory block diagram schematic 206 ofthe explanatory electronic device 200. In one or more embodiments, theblock diagram schematic 206 is configured as a printed circuit boardassembly disposed within the device housing 202 of the electronic device200. Various components can be electrically coupled together byconductors or a bus disposed along one or more printed circuit boards.

The illustrative block diagram schematic 206 of FIG. 2 includes manydifferent components. Embodiments of the disclosure contemplate that thenumber and arrangement of such components can change depending on theparticular application. Accordingly, electronic devices configured inaccordance with embodiments of the disclosure can include somecomponents that are not shown in FIG. 2 , and other components that areshown may not be needed and can therefore be omitted.

In one embodiment, the electronic device includes one or more processors207. In one embodiment, the one or more processors 207 can include anapplication processor and, optionally, one or more auxiliary processors.One or both of the application processor or the auxiliary processor(s)can include one or more processors. One or both of the applicationprocessor or the auxiliary processor(s) can be a microprocessor, a groupof processing components, one or more ASICs, programmable logic, orother type of processing device. The application processor and theauxiliary processor(s) can be operable with the various components ofthe block diagram schematic 206. Each of the application processor andthe auxiliary processor(s) can be configured to process and executeexecutable software code to perform the various functions of theelectronic device with which the block diagram schematic 206 operates. Astorage device, such as memory 208, can optionally store the executablesoftware code used by the one or more processors 207 during operation.

In this illustrative embodiment, the block diagram schematic 206 alsoincludes a communication device 209 that can be configured for wired orwireless communication with one or more other devices or networks. Thenetworks can include a wide area network, a local area network, and/orpersonal area network. The communication device 209 may also utilizewireless technology for communication, such as, but are not limited to,peer-to-peer or ad hoc communications such as HomeRF, Bluetooth and IEEE802.11, and other forms of wireless communication such as infraredtechnology. The communication device 209 can include wirelesscommunication circuitry, one of a receiver, a transmitter, ortransceiver, and one or more antennas 210.

In one embodiment, the one or more processors 207 can be responsible forperforming the primary functions of the electronic device with which theblock diagram schematic 206 is operational. For example, in oneembodiment the one or more processors 207 comprise one or more circuitsoperable with the display 201 to present presentation information to auser. The executable software code used by the one or more processors207 can be configured as one or more modules 211 that are operable withthe one or more processors 207. Such modules 211 can store instructions,control algorithms, and so forth.

In one or more embodiments, the block diagram schematic 206 includes anaudio input/processor 212. The audio input/processor 212 is operable toreceive audio input from an environment 213 about the electronic device200. The audio input/processor 212 can include hardware, executablecode, and speech monitor executable code in one embodiment. The audioinput/processor 212 can be operable with one or more predefinedidentification references stored in memory 208. With reference to audioinput, the predefined identification references can compriserepresentations of basic speech models, representations of trainedspeech models, or other representations of predefined audio sequencesthat are used by the audio input/processor 212 to receive and identifyvoice commands that are received with audio input captured by an audiocapture device. In one embodiment, the audio input/processor 212 caninclude a voice recognition engine. Regardless of the specificimplementation utilized in the various embodiments, the audioinput/processor 212 can access various speech models stored with thepredefined identification references to identify speech commands,languages being spoken, and other information.

The audio input/processor 212 can include a beam steering engine 214comprising one or more microphones 215. Input from the one or moremicrophones 215 can be processed in the beam steering engine 214 suchthat the one or more microphones define a virtual microphone. Thisvirtual microphone can define an acoustic reception cone that can bevirtually “steered” around the electronic device 200. Alternatively,actual steering can occur as well, such as switching between a left andright microphone or a front and back microphone, or switching variousmicrophones ON and OFF individually. In one or more embodiments, two ormore microphones 215 can be included for selective beam steering by thebeam steering engine 214.

Illustrating by example, a first microphone can be located on a firstside of the electronic device 200 for receiving audio input from a firstdirection, while a second microphone can be placed on a second side ofthe electronic device 200 for receiving audio input from a seconddirection. These microphones can be “steered” by selectively turningthem ON and OFF.

The beam steering engine 214 can then select between the firstmicrophone and the second microphone to beam steer audio receptiontoward an object, such as a user delivering audio input. This beamsteering can be responsive to input from other sensors, such as imagers,facial depth scanners, thermal sensors, or other sensors. For example,an imager 216 can estimate a location of a person's face and deliversignals to the beam steering engine 214 alerting it in which directionto focus the acoustic reception cone and/or steer the first microphoneand the second microphone, thereby adding confirmation to audio steeringand saving time. Where multiple people are around the electronic device200, this steering advantageously directs a beam reception cone toward aparticular person so that languages spoken, language preferences, andother information about the person's speech can be ascertained.

Alternatively, the beam steering engine 214 processes and combines thesignals from two or more microphones to perform beam steering. The oneor more microphones 215 can be used for voice commands and/or forlanguage recognition. In response to control of the one or moremicrophones 215 by the beam steering engine 214, a user locationdirection can be determined. The beam steering engine 214 can thenselect between the first microphone and the second microphone to beamsteer audio reception toward the user. Alternatively, the audioinput/processor 212 can employ a weighted combination of the microphonesto beam steer audio reception toward the user.

In one embodiment, the audio input/processor 212 is configured toimplement a voice control feature that allows a user to speak to causethe one or more processors 207 to identify a language preferencecorresponding to a particular person. For example, the user may say, “Nome gusta.” This statement, which is in Spanish, allows the one or moreprocessors 207 to cooperate with an identification system 217 toidentify both the language and who is the source of the statement withinthe environment 213 of the electronic device 200. Consequently, thisstatement can cause the one or more processors 207 to access theidentification system 217 and begin an identification process todetermine which person within the environment 213 has Spanish as theirlanguage preference. In one or more embodiments, the audioinput/processor 212 listens for voice commands, processes the commandsand, in conjunction with the one or more processors 207, determineslanguage preferences of persons situated within the environment 213 ofthe electronic device 200.

The one or more processors 207 can perform filtering operations on audioinput received by the audio input/processor 212. For example, in oneembodiment the one or more processors 207 can filter the audio inputinto identifiable audio input, i.e., first audio input, and other audioinput that is not identifiable, i.e., second audio input.

Various sensors 218 can be operable with the one or more processors 207.One example of a sensor that can be included with the various sensors218 is a touch sensor. The touch sensor can include a capacitive touchsensor, an infrared touch sensor, resistive touch sensors, or anothertouch-sensitive technology. Capacitive touch-sensitive devices include aplurality of capacitive sensors, e.g., electrodes, which are disposedalong a substrate. Each capacitive sensor is configured, in conjunctionwith associated control circuitry, e.g., the one or more processors 207,to detect an object in close proximity with—or touching—the surface ofthe display 201 or the device housing 202 of the electronic device 200by establishing electric field lines between pairs of capacitive sensorsand then detecting perturbations of those field lines.

Another example of a sensor that can be included with the varioussensors 218 is a geo-locator that serves as a location detector. In oneembodiment, location detector is able to determine location data whenauthenticating a user. Location can be determined by capturing thelocation data from a constellation of one or more earth orbitingsatellites, or from a network of terrestrial base stations to determinean approximate location. The location detector may also be able todetermine location by locating or triangulating terrestrial basestations of a traditional cellular network, or from other local areanetworks, such as Wi-Fi networks.

Another example of a sensor that can be included with the varioussensors 218 is an orientation detector operable to determine anorientation and/or movement of the electronic device 200 inthree-dimensional space. Illustrating by example, the orientationdetector can include an accelerometer, gyroscopes, or other device todetect device orientation and/or motion of the electronic device 200.Using an accelerometer as an example, an accelerometer can be includedto detect motion of the electronic device. Additionally, theaccelerometer can be used to sense some of the gestures of the user,such as one talking with their hands, running, or walking.

The orientation detector can determine the spatial orientation of anelectronic device 200 in three-dimensional space by, for example,detecting a gravitational direction. In addition to, or instead of, anaccelerometer, an electronic compass can be included to detect thespatial orientation of the electronic device relative to the earth'smagnetic field. Similarly, one or more gyroscopes can be included todetect rotational orientation of the electronic device 200.

The identification system 217 is operable with the one or moreprocessors 207. A first identifier of the identification system 217 caninclude an imager 216. In one embodiment, the imager 216 comprises atwo-dimensional imager configured to receive at least one image of aperson within an environment of the electronic device 200. In oneembodiment, the imager 216 comprises a two-dimensional RGB imager. Inanother embodiment, the imager 216 comprises an infrared imager. Othertypes of imagers suitable for use as the imager 216 of theidentification system 217 will be obvious to those of ordinary skill inthe art having the benefit of this disclosure.

The identification system 217 can be operable with a face analyzer 219and an environmental analyzer 220. The face analyzer 219 and/orenvironmental analyzer 220 can be configured to process an image ordepth scan of an object and determine whether the object matchespredetermined criteria by comparing the image or depth scan to one ormore predefined identification references stored in memory 208.

For example, the face analyzer 219 and/or environmental analyzer 220 canoperate as an identification module configured with optical and/orspatial recognition to identify objects using image recognition,character recognition, visual recognition, facial recognition, colorrecognition, shape recognition, and the like. Advantageously, the faceanalyzer 219 and/or environmental analyzer 220, operating in tandem withthe identification system 217, can be used as a facial recognitiondevice to determine the identity of one or more persons detected withinthe environment 213 of the electronic device 200.

In one embodiment when the identification system 217 detects a person,the imager 216 can capture a photograph of that person. Theidentification system 217 can then compare the image to one or morepredefined identification references stored in the memory 208. Thiscomparison, in one or more embodiments, is used to confirm beyond athreshold authenticity probability that the person's face in the imagesufficiently matches one or more of the predefined identificationreferences stored in the memory 208 to identify the person and, in somesituations, determine who is an authorized user of the electronic device200 and/or who is the owner of the electronic device 200. Beneficially,this optical recognition performed by the identification system 217operating in conjunction with the face analyzer 219 and/or environmentalanalyzer 220 the electronic device 200 to determine who is within theenvironment 213 of the electronic device 200, as well as who is using aaugmented reality companion device (100).

In one or more embodiments, a user can “train” the electronic device 200by storing predefined identification references in the memory 208 of theelectronic device 200. Illustrating by example, a user may take a seriesof pictures. They can include identifiers of special features such aseye color, sink color, air color, weight, and height. They can includethe user standing in front of a particular wall, which is identifiableby the environmental analyzer from images captured by the imager 216.They can include the user raising a hand, touching hair, or looking inone direction, such as in a profile view. These can then be stored aspredefined identification references in the memory 208 of the electronicdevice 200.

The face analyzer 219 can include an image/gaze detection-processingengine as well. The image/gaze detection-processing engine can processinformation to detect a user's gaze point. Electronic signals can thenbe delivered from the imager 216 for computing the direction of user'sgaze in three-dimensional space. The image/gaze detection-processingengine can further be configured to detect a gaze cone corresponding tothe detected gaze direction, which is a field of view within which theuser may easily see without diverting their eyes or head from thedetected gaze direction. The image/gaze detection-processing engine canbe configured to alternately estimate gaze direction by inputting imagesrepresenting a photograph of a selected area near or around the eyes. Itcan also be valuable to determine if the user wants to be authenticatedby looking directly at device. The image/gaze detection-processingengine can determine not only a gazing cone but also if an eye islooking in a particular direction to confirm user intent to beauthenticated.

Other components 221 operable with the one or more processors 207 caninclude output components such as video, audio, and/or mechanicaloutputs. For example, the output components may include a video outputcomponent or auxiliary devices including a cathode ray tube, liquidcrystal display, plasma display, incandescent light, fluorescent light,front or rear projection display, and light emitting diode indicator.Other examples of output components include audio output components suchas a loudspeaker disposed behind a speaker port or other alarms and/orbuzzers and/or a mechanical output component such as vibrating ormotion-based mechanisms.

The other components 221 can also include proximity sensors. Theproximity sensors fall in to one of two camps: active proximity sensorsand “passive” proximity sensors. Either the proximity detectorcomponents or the proximity sensor components can be generally used forgesture control and other user interface protocols.

The other components 221 can optionally include a barometer operable tosense changes in air pressure due to elevation changes or differingpressures of the electronic device 200. The other components 221 canalso optionally include a light sensor that detects changes in opticalintensity, color, light, or shadow in the environment of an electronicdevice. This can be used to make inferences about context such asweather or colors, walls, fields, and so forth, or other cues. Aninfrared sensor can be used in conjunction with, or in place of, thelight sensor. The infrared sensor can be configured to detect thermalemissions from an environment about the electronic device 200.Similarly, a temperature sensor can be configured to monitor temperatureabout an electronic device.

A context engine 222 can then operable with the various sensors todetect, infer, capture, and otherwise determine persons and actions thatare occurring in an environment about the electronic device 200. Forexample, where included one embodiment of the context engine 222determines assessed contexts and frameworks using adjustable algorithmsof context assessment employing information, data, and events. Theseassessments may be learned through repetitive data analysis.Alternatively, a user may employ a menu or user controls via the display201 to enter various parameters, constructs, rules, and/or paradigmsthat instruct or otherwise guide the context engine 222 in detectingmulti-modal social cues, emotional states, moods, and other contextualinformation. The context engine 222 can comprise an artificial neuralnetwork or other similar technology in one or more embodiments.

In one or more embodiments, the context engine 222 is operable with theone or more processors 207. In some embodiments, the one or moreprocessors 207 can control the context engine 222. In other embodiments,the context engine 222 can operate independently, delivering informationgleaned from detecting multi-modal social cues, emotional states, moods,and other contextual information to the one or more processors 207. Thecontext engine 222 can receive data from the various sensors. In one ormore embodiments, the one or more processors 207 are configured toperform the operations of the context engine 222.

In one or more embodiments, the one or more processors 207 can beoperable with the various authenticators of the identification system217. For example, the one or more processors 207 can be operable with afirst authenticator and a second authenticator. Where moreauthenticators are included in the identification system 217, the one ormore processors 207 can be operable with these authenticators as well.

It is to be understood that in both FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 , the elementsillustrated are provided for illustrative purposes only in accordancewith embodiments of the disclosure. Neither is intended to be a completeschematic diagram of the various components required. Therefore, otherelectronic devices in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure mayinclude various other components obvious to those of ordinary skill inthe art having the benefit of this disclosure, but not shown in FIG. 1or FIG. 2 , or may include a combination of two or more components or adivision of a particular component into two or more separate components,and still be within the scope of the present disclosure.

Turning now to FIG. 3 , illustrated therein is one explanatory contentpresentation companion device 300 in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the disclosure. In this illustrative embodiment, thecontent presentation companion device 300 comprises a color videomonitor. In other embodiments, the content presentation companion device300 can take other forms. Illustrating by example, the contentpresentation companion device 300 can be a television, a computerdisplay, a laptop display, a tablet computer, or a projector projectingcontent onto a screen. Other examples of content presentation companiondevices 300 will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art havingthe benefit of this disclosure. Regardless of configuration, in one ormore embodiments the content presentation companion device 300 includesone or more processors 302, a display 301, a memory 303, an audio output304, and a communication device 305 capable of wired or wirelesscommunication with an electronic device such as the electronic device(200) of FIG. 2 .

In one or more embodiments, when coupled by either a wireless or wiredconnection to such an electronic device (200), the content presentationcompanion device 300 can function as a primary display for theelectronic device (200). The electronic device (200) can receive contentfrom a terrestrial broadcast network, cable television network, Internetstreaming service, or combinations thereof, and redirect this content tothe content presentation companion device 300 since its display 301 islarger than the display (201) of the electronic device (200). Thisallows people within the environment of the electronic device (200) orcontent presentation companion device 300 to more easily see thecontent. In one or more embodiments, content flows from the electronicdevice (200) to the content presentation companion device 300 throughthe communication device 305.

As will be described in more detail below with reference to thesubsequent methods and method steps, the presentation of eventnotifications, subtitles, or other information to a user wearing anaugmented reality companion device (100) occurs as a function of one ormore personal characteristics corresponding to one or more persons beingphysically situated within a predefined environment (213) of theelectronic device (200) and or the content presentation companion device300. These personal characteristics can include characteristics such aswhether a person is using an augmented reality companion device (100),what language the persons within the predefined environment (213) speak,and so forth. Other examples of personal characteristics will bedescribed below. Still others will be obvious to those of ordinary skillin the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

Turning now to FIG. 4 , illustrated therein is one explanatory method400 illustrating how the augmented reality companion device 100 of FIG.1 , the electronic device 200 of FIG. 2 , and the content presentationcompanion device 300 can be used as a system. Beginning at step 401, theelectronic device 200 is streaming a content offering 412, which in thisillustrative example is the big game. Said differently, at step 401 theone or more processors (207) of the electronic device 200 are causingthe communication device (209) of the electronic device to deliver thecontent offering 412 to the content presentation companion device 300for presentation to the environment 411.

A first person 409 and a second person 410 are situated within anenvironment 411 of the electronic device 200. Since both the firstperson 409 and the second person 410 want to watch the big game, thefirst person 409, who is the owner of the electronic device 200 in thisexample, causes the big game to be delivered from the electronic device200 to the content presentation companion device 300 since its display301 is much larger than the display 201 of the electronic device 200.When in this content delivery mode of operation, the contentpresentation companion device 300 serves as the primary display for theelectronic device 200. This enables both the first person 409 and thesecond person 410 to easily see the big game.

In this illustration, the first person 409 is also wearing an augmentedreality companion device 100. At step 402, one or more processors (207)of the electronic device 200 detect, using a communication device (209)of the electronic device 200, that the electronic device iselectronically in communication with the content presentation companiondevice 300 while the content presentation companion device 300 isoperating as the primary display for the electronic device 200. At step403, the one or more processors (207) of the electronic device 200detect, again using the communication device (209) of the electronicdevice 200, that the electronic device is electronically incommunication with the augmented reality companion device 100.

At step 404, the one or more processors (207) of the electronic device200, operating in tandem with one or more sensors (218) of theelectronic device 200, detect that multiple persons, here the firstperson 409 and the second person 410, are present within the environment411 of the electronic device 200 while the content presentationcompanion device 300 is operating as the primary display for theelectronic device 200.

At optional step 405, the one or more processors (207) of the electronicdevice 200 can identify, using an identification system (217) or othercomponents of the electronic device 200, whether one person of themultiple persons situated within the environment 411 of the electronicdevice 200 is an authorized user of the electronic device 200. Here, thefirst person 409 is the owner of the electronic device 200, and hasauthenticated himself to the electronic device 200 as such by entering apassword. Accordingly, the first person 409 constitutes an authorizeduser of the electronic device 200.

In one or more embodiments, step 405 also comprises detecting, using theone or more sensors (218), the imager 216, the identification system(217), or other components of the electronic device 200, that theauthorized user of the electronic device 200, here the first person 409,is operating the augmented reality companion device 100. As shown atstep 401, in this illustrative example the authorized user is indeedoperating the augmented reality companion device 100.

At step 406, the one or more processors (207) of the electronic device200 determine that an event notification is being generated or receivedfor display. The event notification, which can include a notificationthat an incoming call was received, an incoming email message wasreceived, an incoming text message was received, an alarm has occurred,a social media post has been posted, a news event has been received, acalendar event has occurred, one or more subtitles associated with acontent offering, an application generated event notification, anincoming electronic communication event notification, or otherinformation, can take various forms. In one or more embodiments, theevent notification is configured graphically as images, words, shapes,or other objects, indicate that one or more notifications have beenreceived by the electronic device 200. For example, if the electronicdevice 200 includes an Internet browser application, an electronic mailapplication, a social media application, and a news applicationoperating on the one or more processors (207), the event notificationcan provide a brief indication to the user that an event has occurred inone of these applications.

Illustrating by example, when new electronic mail correspondence isreceived, the electronic mail application may generate an eventnotification to indicate that a person has unread electronic mail.Similarly, when a friend posts new content, the social media applicationmay cause an event notification to be generated for presentation to theuser, and so forth. These examples are illustrative only, as numerousother event notifications and corresponding applications will be obviousto those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of thisdisclosure.

Since the first person 409 and the second person 410 are both enjoyingthe big game while the content presentation companion device 300 servesas the primary display of the electronic device 200, presenting theevent notification on the display 301 of the content presentationcompanion device 300 may irritate or distract the second person 410 dueto the fact that the event notification is intended only for an owner orauthorized user of the electronic device 200. Since the second person410 is not the intended recipient of the event notification, presentingthe event notification on the display 301 of the content presentationcompanion device 300 will only be a distraction.

Accordingly, in one or more embodiments step 407 comprises the one ormore processors (207) of the electronic device 200 redirecting the eventnotification intended for presentation on the primary display of theelectronic device 200 to the augmented reality companion device 100.Step 407 can optionally include redirecting audio content toloudspeakers included with the augmented reality companion device 100 aswell. Advantageously, this allows the first person 409 to easily see theevent notification 413 as an augmented reality object as shown at step408 and/or hear audio content at the same time. This allows the firstperson 409 to continue watching the content offering 412, yet stillremain informed regarding event notifications being directed to theelectronic device 200 without disturbing the second person's enjoymentof the content offering 412.

In one or more embodiments, the redirecting occurring at step 407 occursas a function 414 of one or more inputs. Illustrating by example, in oneor more embodiments the redirecting of step 407 occurs while thecommunication device (209) of the electronic device 200 delivers thecontent offering 412 to the content presentation companion device 300.If, for example, the first person 409 and the second person 410 pausethe delivery of the content offering 412 from being delivered to thecontent presentation companion device 300 to take a restroom break,event notifications can be presented on the display 201 of theelectronic device 200 in the interim. In one or more embodiments, theredirecting occurring at step 407 occurs only while the communicationdevice (209) of the electronic device 200 delivers the content offering412 to the content presentation companion device 300.

In one or more embodiments, the one or more processors (207) of theelectronic device 200 determine whether the event notification 413 isunrelated 415 to the content offering 412. In one or more embodiments,the redirecting of step 407 occurs only when the event notification 413is unrelated 415 to the content offering 412. Illustrating by example,if the event notification 413 is a score update, or player injuryupdate, or is otherwise related to the big game, such an eventnotification 413 would likely be of interest to both the first person409 and the second person 410. Accordingly, in one or more embodimentsthe one or more processors (207) of the electronic device 200 will omitthe redirection of step 407 when the event notification 413 is relatedto the content offering 412 and instead present the event notification413 on the primary display of the electronic device 200, which is thedisplay 301 of the content presentation companion device 300 in thisexample. By contrast, if the event notification 413 is unrelated to thecontent offering 412, such as would be the case when the first person409 and the second person 410 are watching the big game and the eventnotification 413 is related to a work issue the first person's employeris experiencing, the one or more processors (207) of the electronicdevice 200 will redirect, at step 407, the event notification 413 to theaugmented reality companion device 100.

As noted above, at step 405 the one or more processors (207) of theelectronic device 200 can determine whether an authorized user issituated within the environment 411 of the electronic device 200. In oneor more embodiments, the redirecting of step 407 occurs only when theauthorized user is situated within the environment 411.

As also noted above, step 405 can further include determining whetherthe authorized user of the electronic device 200 is operating theaugmented reality companion device 100. In one or more embodiments, theredirecting of step 407 occurs only when the authorized user isoperating the augmented reality companion device 100.

In one or more embodiments, step 406 can comprise the one or moreprocessors (207) of the electronic device 200 determining who is theintended recipient of the event notification 413. In one or moreembodiments, the redirecting of step 407 occurs only when the authorizeduser is the intended recipient of the event notification 413.Illustrating by example, if the first person's employer needs to contactthe first person 409 for an issue occurring at work, this notificationwould not be intended for the second person 410. Instead, the onlyperson situated within the environment 411 of the electronic device 200for whom the event notification 413 was intended would be the firstperson 409. Accordingly, this event notification 413 would beredirected, at step 407, to the augmented reality companion device 100.By contrast, if the first person 409 and the second person 410 are twinbrothers, and someone wishes them a happy birthday, the redirecting ofstep 407 can be omitted and the event notification 413 can be presentedon the primary display of the electronic device 200, which is thedisplay 301 of the content presentation companion device 300 in thisillustrative example.

In one or more embodiments, the redirecting of step 407 can occur inaccordance with a preconfigured or user selectable private notificationslist 416. The preconfigured or user selectable private notificationslist 416 can include a list of notification types 417 that are to beredirected to the augmented reality companion device 100. Examples ofsuch types 417 included within the list could be new message notices,incoming call notices, notifications from specific applications, and soforth. Other types of event notifications will be obvious to those ofordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.Accordingly, in one or more embodiments at step 406 the one or moreprocessors (207) of the electronic device determine an eventnotification type 417 associated with the event notification 413, withthe redirecting of step 407 occurring only when the event notificationtype 417 is within a predefined event notification type class includedwithin the preconfigured or user selectable private notifications list416. If not included in the list, redirection of the event notification413 occurring at step 407 can be omitted, with the event notification413 being presented on the primary display instead.

In one or more embodiments, the redirecting of step 407 can occur as afunction of a target display decision-making mechanism 418 based upon aprivate notifications list. If, for example, an event notification 413contains private or personal information corresponding to the privatenotifications list, the event notification 413 can be redirected at step407 to the augmented reality companion device 100. By contrast, if nopersonal information is included, as determined by the target displaydecision-making mechanism 418 redirection of the event notification 413occurring at step 407 can be omitted, with the event notification 413being presented on the primary display instead. This would prevent, forexample, the second person 410 from seeing an event notification 413indicating that the girlfriend of the first person 409 is breaking upwith him, while allowing other event notifications such as messages fromfriends cheering on one of the teams of the big game.

Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 4 , the electronic device 200includes a communication device (209) electronically communicating witha content presentation companion device 300 operating as a primarydisplay for the electronic device 200. The communication device (209) isalso electronically communicating with an augmented reality companiondevice 100 being worn by an owner of the electronic device 200, which inthis example is the first person 409.

One or more sensors (218), an identification system (217), an imager(216), or other components of the electronic device 200 detect multiplepersons being situated within an environment 411 of the electronicdevice 200 while the content presentation companion device 300 operatesas the primary display of the electronic device 200. One or moreprocessors (207) of the electronic device 200 then redirect an eventnotification 413 intended for presentation on the primary display to theaugmented reality companion device 100 when both the contentpresentation companion device 300 operates as the primary display forthe electronic device 200 and the multiple persons are within theenvironment 411 of the electronic device 200.

As explained above, this delivery of the event notification 413 to theaugmented reality companion device 100 can be conditional. Illustratingby example, in one or more embodiments the one or more processors (207)redirect the event notification 413 to the augmented reality companiondevice 100 only when the one or more sensors (218) or other componentsof the electronic device 200 detect the owner of the electronic device200 being among the multiple persons situated within the environment 411of the electronic device 200.

In other embodiments, the one or more processors (207) redirect theevent notification 413 to the augmented reality companion device 100only when the owner of the electronic device 200 is the only person ofthe multiple persons situated within the environment 411 who is anintended recipient of the event notification 413. In still otherembodiments, one or more processors (207) redirect the eventnotification 413 to the augmented reality companion device 100 only whenthe event notification is of a predefined event notification type 417.This predefined event notification type 417 could be defined by apreconfigured or user selectable private notifications list 416, whichcan be stored in the memory (208) of the electronic device 200.

In one or more embodiments, the one or more processors (207) redirectthe event notification 413 from the content presentation companiondevice 300 to the augmented reality companion device 100 when at leastone predefined condition is met. In one or more embodiments, the atleast one predefined condition comprises the one or more sensors (218)detecting multiple persons consuming the content offering 412 within theenvironment 411 of the electronic device 200.

The at least one predefined condition can be multifaceted, however.Illustrating by example, in one or more embodiments the at least onepredefined condition further comprises the one or more sensors (218)identifying an owner of the electronic device 200 among the multiplepersons situated within the environment 411 of the electronic device200. Similarly, the at least one predefined condition can furthercomprise the one or more sensors (218) identifying the owner of theelectronic device 200 operating the augmented reality companion device100. In still other embodiments, the at least one predefined conditioncan comprise the one or more processors (207) determining that the ownerof the electronic device 200 is the only person of the multiple personssituated within the environment 411 of the electronic device 200 to whomthe event notification 413 is directed. These are examples only. Otherexamples of facets of the at least one predefined condition will beobvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of thisdisclosure.

While in many instances the event notification 413 will be an incomingelectronic communication event notification, such as would be the casewhen an email, text message, or voice call was received by theelectronic device 200, or an application generated event notification,such as would be the case if an alarm in a calendar application occurs,embodiments of the disclosure are not so limited. Embodiments of thedisclosure have a multitude of uses. Illustrating by example, in otherembodiments the event notification 413 may be a subtitle associated withthe content offering 412. Turning now to FIG. 5 , illustrated therein isa method 500 showing how another embodiment of the disclosure can beused with subtitles.

Beginning at step 501, a system is shown that includes an electronicdevice 200 comprising one or more sensors (218), a communication device(209), and one or more processors (207). A content presentationcompanion device 300 is electronically in communication with theelectronic device 200. Similarly, an augmented reality companion device100 is also electronically in communication with the electronic device200.

The one or more processors (207) of the electronic device 200 cause thecommunication device (209) to deliver a content offering 412 to thecontent presentation companion device 300 for presentation to theenvironment 411 of the electronic device 200 at step 501. Accordingly,the display 301 of the content presentation companion device 300 servesas a primary display for the electronic device 200 at step 501.

At step 502, one or more processors (207) of the electronic device 200detect, using a communication device (209) of the electronic device 200,that the electronic device 200 is electronically in communication withthe content presentation companion device 300 while the contentpresentation companion device 300 is operating as the primary displayfor the electronic device 200. At step 503, the one or more processors(207) of the electronic device 200 detect, again using the communicationdevice (209) of the electronic device 200, that the electronic device iselectronically in communication with the augmented reality companiondevice 100.

At step 504, the one or more processors (207) of the electronic device200, operating in tandem with one or more sensors (218) of theelectronic device 200, detect that multiple persons, here the firstperson 409 and the second person 410, are present within the environment411 of the electronic device 200 while the content presentationcompanion device 300 is operating as the primary display for theelectronic device 200.

At optional step 505, the one or more processors (207) of the electronicdevice 200 can identify, using an identification system (217) or othercomponents of the electronic device 200, whether one person of themultiple persons situated within the environment 411 of the electronicdevice 200 is an authorized user or owner of the electronic device 200.Here, the first person 409 is the owner of the electronic device 200.Step 505 can also comprise detecting, using the one or more sensors(218), the imager 216, the identification system (217), or othercomponents of the electronic device 200, that the owner of theelectronic device 200 is operating the augmented reality companiondevice 100.

At step 506, the one or more processors (207) of the electronic device200 determine that the content offering 412 has subtitles associatedtherewith. Step 507 then comprises the one or more processors (207)redirecting the subtitles 513 to the augmented reality companion device100 as shown at step 508. In one or more embodiments, step 507 can occuras a function of one or more device settings. Illustrating by example,in one or more embodiments if there is a need or device settingrequesting delivery of an audio track in addition to the subtitles 513,step 507 can optionally include redirecting audio associated with thecontent offering 412 as well. The subtitles 513 and/or audio can be afunction of location as well. If, for example, the first person 409 andthe second person 410 are located in Spain, the subtitles 513 and/oraudio may be in Spanish. BY contrast, if the first person 409 and thesecond person 410 are in India, the subtitles 513 and/or audio may be inHindi, and so forth. The presentation of the subtitles 513 and/or audiocan occur in conjunction with the presentation of other eventnotifications 413, or independently thereof.

Turning now to FIG. 6 , illustrated therein is another method 600 inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Beginning atstep 601, an event notification event occurs. In one or moreembodiments, step 601 comprises a communication device of an electronicdevice receiving data causing an event notification to need to bepresented. In other embodiments, step 601 comprises an applicationgenerating an event notification for presentation. Other reasons for thenecessity of presenting event notifications will be obvious to those ofordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

Decision 602 then determines whether the communication device of theelectronic device is electronically in communication with both a contentpresentation companion device and an augmented reality companion device.Where it is, the method 600 moves to decision 603. Otherwise, the method600 stops to step 607.

Decision 603 then determines whether multiple persons are situatedwithin an environment of the electronic device. Where they are, themethod 600 moves to decision 604. Otherwise, the method 600 moves tostep 606.

Decision 604 then determines whether the event notification of step 601is a private notification or a public notification. The eventnotification may be a private event notification if it the intendedrecipient of the event notification is only one of the multiple personsdetected at decision 603. Alternatively, the event notification may be aprivate event notification if it contains private information pertainingonly to one person of the multiple persons detected at decision 603.

Where the electronic device is electronically in communication with botha content presentation companion device and an augmented realitycompanion device, there are multiple persons within the environment ofthe electronic device, and the event notification is a privatenotification, in one or more embodiments step 605 comprises theelectronic device redirecting the event notification from the contentpresentation companion device to the augmented reality companion device.Step 605 can include directing audio content associated with the contentoffering to the augmented reality companion device in one or moreembodiments. By contrast, when one or more if these predefinedconditions fails to occur, in one or more embodiments the electronicdevice presents the event notification at both the content presentationcompanion device and the augmented reality companion device at step 606.

Turning now to FIG. 7 , illustrated therein is yet another method 700 inaccordance with embodiments of the disclosure. The method 700 of FIG. 7illustrates how embodiments of the disclosure can be used to deliversubtitles in different languages to speakers of different languageswhile those speakers use augmented reality companion devices whileconsuming content from a content presentation companion device operatingas a primary display for an electronic device.

Beginning at step 701, one or more processors (207) of an electronicdevice 200 cause a communication device (209) of the electronic device200 to deliver content offering 412 to a content presentation companiondevice 300 for presentation to an environment 411 of the electronicdevice 200. In this illustrative embodiment, a first person 709 and asecond person 710 are situated within the environment 411 of theelectronic device 200 and are consuming the content offering 412 fromthe content presentation companion device 300 while the display 301 ofthe content presentation companion device 300 functions as the primarydisplay of the electronic device 200.

In this illustration, the first person 709 speaks Spanish, while thesecond person 710 speaks French. However, the content offering 412 is afootball game with audio dialogue in English. Fortunately, both thefirst person 709 and the second person 710 are wearing augmented realitycompanion devices configured in accordance with embodiments of thedisclosure. As will be demonstrated below, this allows each of them toenjoy the content offering 412 in their native language. As alluded toabove, the method 700 of FIG. 7 could also be used if the first person709 and the second person 710 were English speakers but trying to learnSpanish and French, respectively.

At step 702, the one or more processors (207) of the electronic device200 detect that the communication device (209) of the electronic device200 is electronically in communication with the content presentationcompanion device 300. At step 703, the one or more processors (207) ofthe electronic device 200 detect that the communication device (209) ofthe electronic device 200 is electronically in communication with both afirst augmented reality companion device 100 and a second augmentedreality companion device 708.

At step 704, the one or more processors (207), optionally with one ormore sensors (218) and/or an identification system (217) as describedabove with reference to FIG. 2 , identify the first person 709 operatingthe first augmented reality companion device 100 and the second person710 operating the second augmented reality companion device 708. At step705, the one or more processors (207) of the electronic device 200determine whether the content offering 412 supports subtitles. In thisexample, it does, supporting subtitles in English, French, Spanish,German, Hindi, and Mandarin.

At step 706, the one or more processors (207) of the electronic device200 determine a first language preference of the first person 709 and asecond language preference of the second person 710. This can be done ina variety of ways.

In one or more embodiments, the one or more processors (207) of theelectronic device 200 determine a first language preference of the firstperson 709 and a second language preference of the second person 710from one or more user settings 714 of the electronic device 200. Theowner of the electronic device 200, here the first person 709, may use amenu or other user settings controls to let the one or more processors(207) know that his first language preference is Spanish, while thesecond language preference of the second person 710 is French.Accordingly, in one or more embodiments the determination of at leastone of the first language preference of the first person or the secondlanguage preference of the second person occurs by determining a usersetting 714 stored within a memory (208) of the electronic device 200.

In another embodiment, voice recognition 715 can be used to determinethe first language preference of the first person 709 and the secondlanguage preference of the second person 710. As described above withreference to FIG. 2 , an audio input/processor (212) can receive audioinput from one or more microphones (215) and can determine what languageis being spoken by each of the first person 709 and the second person710.

In still other embodiments, a prior usage history 711 of the firstaugmented reality companion device 100 and the second augmented realitycompanion device 708 could be used to determine the first languagepreference of the first person 709 and the second language preference ofthe second person 710. Other techniques for determining the firstlanguage preference of the first person 709 and the second languagepreference of the second person 710 will be obvious to those of ordinaryskill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

At step 707, the one or more processors (207) of the electronic device200 cause the communication device (209) of the electronic device 200 todeliver first subtitles 712 associated with the content offering 412 inthe first language preference to the first augmented reality companiondevice 100 and second subtitles 713 associated with the content offeringin the second language preference to the second augmented realitycompanion device 708. In one or more embodiments, the one or moreprocessors (207) of the electronic device 200 can additionally cause thecommunication device (209) of the electronic device 200 to deliver audiocontent to loudspeakers or in-ear speakers of the first augmentedreality companion device 100 and to the second augmented realitycompanion device 713 as well. Where audio is included, this allowsdifferent audio tracks to be delivered to each of the first augmentedreality companion device 100 and the second augmented reality companiondevice 713 depending upon the first language preference and the secondlanguage preference, respectively. Alternatively, audio in a thirdlanguage, e.g., English in this example, can be delivered with the firstsubtitles 712 and the second subtitles 713. Other configurations will beobvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of thisdisclosure.

If, for example, the content offering 412 had been a movie instead ofthe big game, the first subtitles 712 and the second subtitles 713 maycomprise dialog associated with the movie. In the case of the big game,the first subtitles 712 and the second subtitles 713 may comprisetranscriptions of the announcers calling the play-by-play action.Alternatively, when the content offering 412 is a sporting event as isthe case in the illustrative example of FIG. 7 , the first subtitles 712and the second subtitles 713 can comprise scores associated with thesporting event. If the content offering 412 had been a music video, thefirst subtitles 712 and the second subtitles 713 could be lyricsassociated with the music video, and so forth. Other examples ofsubtitles will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art havingthe benefit of this disclosure.

In this illustrative example, the first language preference and thesecond language preference are different, as the first languagepreference is Spanish and the second language preference is French.

Since the first language preference and second language preference aredifferent, step 707 also comprises precluding, with the one or moreprocessors (207) of the electronic device 200, the presentation ofeither the first subtitles 712 or the second subtitles 713 frompresentation on the display 301 of the content presentation companiondevice 300 as shown at step 707. This adds to the enjoyment of thecontent offering 412 by each person, as the Spanish speaker, here thefirst person 709, and the French speaker, here the second person 710,are not distracted by subtitles in languages they do not understand. Inother embodiments, the one or more processors (207) of the electronicdevice will deliver the first subtitles 712 and the second subtitles toboth the first augmented reality companion device 100 and contentpresentation companion device 300 and the second augmented realitycompanion device 708 and the content presentation companion device 300,respectively.

In still other embodiments, such as may be the case when both the firstperson 709 and the second person 710 are bilingual or hearing impaired,the one or more processors (207) of the electronic device 200 may causethe communication device (209) to deliver third subtitles 714 associatedwith the content offering 412 to the content presentation companiondevice 300. In one or more embodiments, the third subtitles 714 are in athird language preference that is different from both the first languagepreference and the second language preference. Illustrating by example,the third subtitles 714 may be in English.

Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 7 an electronic device 200 includes acommunication device (209) electronically delivering a content offering412 to a content presentation companion device 300 operating as aprimary display for the electronic device 200 while the communicationdevice (209) is electronically communicating with at least two augmentedreality companion devices 100,708. One or more sensors (218) or othercomponents of the electronic device 200 identify, as described abovewith reference to FIG. 2 , a first person 709 operating a firstaugmented reality companion device 100 and a second person 710 operatinga second augmented reality companion device 708 of the at least twoaugmented reality companion devices within an environment 411 of thecontent presentation companion device 300 while the content presentationcompanion device 300 operates as the primary display for the electronicdevice 200. In this illustrative embodiment, both the first augmentedreality companion device 100 and the second augmented reality companiondevice 708 comprise augmented reality glasses.

In one or more embodiments, one or more processors (207) of theelectronic device 200 cause the communication device (209) toelectronically deliver first subtitles 712 associated with the contentoffering 412 in a first language preference of the first person 709 tothe first augmented reality companion device and second subtitles 713associated with the content offering 412 in a second language preferenceof the second person 710 to the second augmented reality companiondevice 708. In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 7 , while theelectronic device 200 includes a display 201, the content presentationcompanion device 300 comprises a monitor having another display 301 thatis larger than the display 201 of the electronic device 200. Bydelivering the content offering 412 to the content presentationcompanion device 300, the first person 709 and second person 710 canmore easily see the content offering 412.

Turning now to FIG. 8 , illustrated therein is another method 800 inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The method800 is suitable for a system comprising an electronic device comprisingone or more sensor, a communication device, and one or more processors,a content presentation companion device electronically in communicationwith the electronic device an presenting a content offering, and atleast two augmented reality companion devices in communication with theelectronic device. The method results in the one or more processorscausing the communication device to electronically deliver firstsubtitles associated with the content offering in a first languagepreference to the first augmented reality companion device of the atleast two augmented reality companion devices, and second subtitlesassociated with the content offering in a second language preference toa second augmented reality companion device of the at least twoaugmented reality companion devices. In one or more embodiments, thefirst language preference and the second language preference aredifferent.

Beginning at step 801, the method 800 determines the first languagepreference and the second language preference. In one or moreembodiments, this step comprises one or more sensors of the electronicdevice comprising an audio input receiving voice utterances from personswithin the environment of the electronic device, with the one or moreprocessors further determining the first language preference and thesecond language preference using voice recognition to identify the firstlanguage preference and the second language preference from audioreceived by the audio input while the first person operates the firstaugmented reality companion device and the second person operates thesecond augmented reality companion device. In other embodiments, thisstep 801 comprises retrieving the first language preference and thesecond language preference from a memory of the electronic devicestoring the same. Other techniques for performing step 801 will beobvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of thisdisclosure.

Decision 802 determines that the electronic device is in communicationwith, and delivering the content offering to, the content presentationcompanion device. Where it is, the method moves to decision 803.Otherwise, the method 800 moves to step 806.

Decision 803 determines that the electronic device is in communicationwith at least two augmented reality companion devices. Where it is, themethod moves to decision 804. Otherwise, the method 800 moves to step806.

Decision 804 determines whether the first language preference and thesecond language preference are different. Where it is, the method movesto decision 804. Otherwise, the method 800 moves to step 806.

At step 805, the one or more processors of the electronic device causethe communication device to electronically deliver first subtitlesassociated with the content offering in a first language preference tothe a first augmented reality companion device of the at least twoaugmented reality companion devices and second subtitles associated withthe content offering in a second language preference to a secondaugmented reality companion device of the at least two augmented realitycompanion devices. In one or more embodiments, step 805 furthercomprises the one or more processors causing the communication device todeliver third subtitles in a third language preference to the contentpresentation companion device, where the third language preference isdifferent from both the first language preference or the second languagepreference. Step 805 can further comprise the one or more processors ofthe electronic device precluding the presentation of subtitles at thecontent presentation companion device. In one or more embodiments, step805 comprises the one or more processors causing the communicationdevice to electronically deliver the first subtitles to the firstaugmented reality companion device and the second subtitles to thesecond augmented reality companion device only when the one or moresensors identify a first person operating the first augmented realitycompanion device and a second person operating the first augmentedreality companion device.

Where the various conditions determined by decision 802, decision 803,and decision 804 are not met, step 806 comprises the one or moreprocessors of the electronic device delivering subtitles to the contentpresentation companion device for presentation on its display. If, forexample, the first language preference and the second languagepreference are the same, rather than directing first subtitles to thefirst augmented reality companion device and second subtitles to thesecond augmented reality companion device, a single set of subtitles canbe delivered to the content presentation companion device, and so forth.

Turning now to FIG. 9 , illustrated therein are various embodiments ofthe disclosure. The embodiments of FIG. 9 are shown as labeled boxes inFIG. 9 due to the fact that the individual components of theseembodiments have been illustrated in detail in FIGS. 1-8 , which precedeFIG. 9 . Accordingly, since these items have previously been illustratedand described, their repeated illustration is no longer essential for aproper understanding of these embodiments. Thus, the embodiments areshown as labeled boxes.

At 901, a method in an electronic device comprises detecting, with oneor more processors, a communication device electronically incommunication with both a content presentation companion deviceoperating as a primary display for the electronic device and anaugmented reality companion device. At 901, the method comprisesdetecting, with one or more sensors, multiple persons being presentwithin an environment of the electronic device while the contentpresentation companion device is operating as the primary display forthe electronic device. At 901, the method comprises redirecting, withthe one or more processors, an event notification intended forpresentation on the primary display of the electronic device to theaugmented reality companion device while the multiple persons are in theenvironment.

At 902, the method of 901 further comprises causing, by the one or moreprocessors, the communication device to deliver a content offering tothe content presentation companion device for presentation to theenvironment. At 902, the redirecting occurs while the communicationdevice delivers the content offering to the content presentationcompanion device.

At 903, the method of 902 further comprises determining, with the one ormore processors, whether the event notification is related to thecontent offering. At 903, the redirecting occurs only when the eventnotification is unrelated to the content offering.

At 904, the event notification of 903 comprises a subtitle associatedwith the content offering.

At 905, the method of 902 further comprises identifying, with the one ormore sensors, one person of the multiple persons within the environmentas an authorized user of the electronic device. At 905, the redirectingoccurs only when the authorized user of the electronic device is withinthe environment.

At 906, the method of 905 further comprises detecting, with the one ormore sensors, the authorized user of the electronic device operating theaugmented reality companion device. At 906, the redirecting only occurswhen the authorized user is operating the augmented reality companiondevice.

At 907, the method of 906 further comprises determining, with the one ormore processors, an intended recipient of the event notification. At907, the redirecting occurs only when the authorized user is theintended recipient of the event notification.

At 908, the method of 906 further comprises determining, with the one ormore processors, an event notification type associated with the eventnotification. At 908, the redirecting occurs only when the eventnotification type is within a predefined event notification type class.At 909, the predefined event notification type class of 908 is definedby a preconfigured list of user selected event notification types storedwithin a memory of the electronic device.

At 910, an electronic device comprises a communication deviceelectronically communicating with a content presentation companiondevice operating as a primary display for the electronic device and anaugmented reality companion device. At 910, the electronic devicecomprises one or more sensors detecting multiple persons within anenvironment of the electronic device while the content presentationcompanion device operates as the primary display for the electronicdevice. At 910, the electronic device comprises one or more processorsredirecting an event notification intended for presentation on theprimary display to the augmented reality companion device while both thecontent presentation companion device operates as the primary displayfor the electronic device and the multiple persons are within theenvironment of the electronic device.

At 911, the one or more processors of 910 redirect the eventnotification to the augmented reality companion device only when the oneor more sensors detect an owner of the electronic device among themultiple persons within the environment. At 912, the one or moreprocessors of 911 redirect the event notification to the augmentedreality companion device only when the owner of the electronic device isthe only person of the multiple persons who is an intended recipient ofthe event notification.

At 913, the one or more processors of 910 redirect the eventnotification only when the event notification is of a predefined eventnotification type. At 914, the electronic device of 913 furthercomprises a memory operable with the one or more processors. At 914, thepredefined event notification type of 913 is defined by one apreconfigured list of user selected event notification types storedwithin a memory of the electronic device.

At 915, the event notification of 910 comprises one or more subtitlesassociated with a content offering being presented on the contentpresentation companion device. At 916, the event notification of 910comprises one of an application generated event notification or incomingelectronic communication event notification.

At 917, a system comprises an electronic device comprising one or moresensors, a communication device, and one or more processors. At 917, thesystem comprises a content presentation companion device electronicallyin communication with the electronic device. At 917, the systemcomprises an augmented reality companion device in communication withthe electronic device.

At 917, the one or more processors cause the communication device todeliver a content offering to the content presentation companion devicefor presentation to an environment of the electronic device. At 917, theone or more processors redirect an event notification from the contentpresentation companion device to the augmented reality companion devicewhen at least one predefined condition is met. At 917, the at least onepredefined condition comprises the one or more sensors detectingmultiple persons consuming the content offering within the environmentof the electronic device.

At 918, the at least one predefined condition of 917 further comprisesthe one or more sensors identifying an owner of the electronic deviceamong the multiple persons. At 919, the at least one predefinedcondition of 918 further comprises the one or more sensors identifyingthe owner of the electronic device operating the augmented realitycompanion device. At 920, the at least one predefined condition of 919further comprises the one or more processors determining that the ownerof the electronic device is the only person of the multiple persons towhom the event notification is directed.

Turning now to FIG. 10 , illustrated therein are still more embodimentsof the disclosure. As with FIG. 9 above, the embodiments of FIG. 10 arealso shown as labeled boxes in FIG. 10 due to the fact that theindividual components of these embodiments have been illustrated indetail in FIGS. 1-8 , which precede FIG. 10 . Accordingly, since theseitems have previously been illustrated and described, their repeatedillustration is no longer essential for a proper understanding of theseembodiments. Thus, the embodiments are shown as labeled boxes.

At 1001, a method in an electronic device comprises causing, with one ormore processors, a communication device to electronically deliver acontent offering to a content presentation companion device forpresentation to an environment of the electronic device. At 901, themethod comprises detecting, with the one or more processors, thecommunication device electronically in communication with both a firstaugmented reality companion device and a second augmented realitycompanion device.

At 1001, the method comprises identifying, with one or more sensors, afirst person operating the first augmented reality companion device anda second person operating the second augmented reality companion device.At 1001, the method comprises determining, with the one or moreprocessors, a first language preference of the first person and a secondlanguage preference of the second person. At 1001, the method comprisescausing, with the one or more processors, the communication device toelectronically deliver first subtitles associated with the contentoffering in the first language preference to the first augmented realitycompanion device and second subtitles associated with the contentoffering in the second language preference to the second augmentedreality companion device.

At 1002, the first language preference and the second languagepreference of 1001 are different.

At 1003, the method of 1001 further comprises precluding, with the oneor more processors, the presentation of either the first subtitles orthe second subtitles by the content presentation companion device. At1004, the method of 1001 further comprises causing, with the one or moreprocessors, the communication device to deliver third subtitlesassociated with the content offering to the content presentationcompanion device. At 1005, the third subtitles of 1004 are in a thirdlanguage preference that is different from both the first languagepreference and the second language preference.

At 1006, the determining at least one of the first language preferenceof the first person or the second language preference of the secondperson of 1001 occurs by voice recognition. At 1007, the determining atleast one of the first language preference of the first person or thesecond language preference of the second person of 1001 occurs bydetermining a user setting stored within a memory of the electronicdevice.

At 1008, the content offering of 1001 comprises a movie and the firstsubtitles and the second subtitles comprise dialogue associated with themovie. At 1009, the content offering of 1001 comprises a sporting eventand the first subtitles and the second subtitles comprise scoresassociated with the sporting event. At 1010, the content offering of1001 comprises a music video and the first subtitles and the secondsubtitles comprise song lyrics associated with the music video.

At 1011, an electronic device comprises a communication deviceelectronically delivering a content offering to a content presentationcompanion device operating as a primary display for the electronicdevice and communicating with at least two augmented reality companiondevices. At 1011, the electronic device comprises one or more sensorsidentifying a first person operating a first augmented reality companiondevice of the at least two augmented reality companion devices and asecond person operating a second augmented reality companion device ofthe at least two augmented reality companion devices within anenvironment of the content presentation companion device while thecontent presentation companion device operates as the primary displayfor the electronic device. At 1011, the electronic device comprises oneor more processors causing the communication device to electronicallydeliver first subtitles associated with the content offering in a firstlanguage preference of the first person to the first augmented realitycompanion device and second subtitles associated with the contentoffering in a second language preference of the second person to thesecond augmented reality companion device.

At 1012, the electronic device of 1011 further comprises a display. At1012, the content presentation companion device comprises a monitorhaving another display that is larger than the display of the electronicdevice. At 1013, each of the first augmented reality companion deviceand the second augmented reality companion device of 1012 comprisesaugmented reality glasses. At 1014, the electronic device of 1011comprises a memory storing the first language preference and the secondlanguage preference.

At 1015, the one or more sensors of 1011 comprise an audio input. At1015, the one or more processors further determine the first languagepreference and the second language preference using voice recognition toidentify the first language preference and the second languagepreference from audio received by the audio input while the first personoperates the first augmented reality companion device and the secondperson operates the second augmented reality companion device. At 1016,the first language preference and the second language preference of 1011are different.

At 1017, a system comprises an electronic device comprising one or moresensors, a communication device, and one or more processors. At 1017,the system comprises a content presentation companion deviceelectronically in communication with the electronic device andpresenting a content offering. At 1017, the system comprises at leasttwo augmented reality companion devices in communication with theelectronic device.

At 1017, the one or more processors of the electronic device causecausing the communication device to electronically deliver firstsubtitles associated with the content offering in a first languagepreference to the a first augmented reality companion device of the atleast two augmented reality companion devices and second subtitlesassociated with the content offering in a second language preference toa second augmented reality companion device of the at least twoaugmented reality companion devices. At 1017, the first languagepreference and the second language preference are different.

At 1018, the one or more processors of 1017 cause the communicationdevice to deliver third subtitles in a third language preference to thecontent presentation companion device. At 1017, the third languagepreference is different from both the first language preference and thesecond language preference.

At 1019, the one or more processors of 1017 preclude the presentation ofsubtitles at the content presentation companion device. At 1020, the oneor more processors of 1017 cause the communication device toelectronically deliver the first subtitles to the first augmentedreality companion device and the second subtitles to the secondaugmented reality companion device only when the one or more sensorsidentify a first person operating the first augmented reality companiondevice and a second person operating the first augmented realitycompanion device.

In the foregoing specification, specific embodiments of the presentdisclosure have been described. However, one of ordinary skill in theart appreciates that various modifications and changes can be madewithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure as set forthin the claims below. Thus, while preferred embodiments of the disclosurehave been illustrated and described, it is clear that the disclosure isnot so limited. Numerous modifications, changes, variations,substitutions, and equivalents will occur to those skilled in the artwithout departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure asdefined by the following claims.

Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be regarded in anillustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modificationsare intended to be included within the scope of present disclosure. Thebenefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element(s) that maycause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become morepronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essentialfeatures or elements of any or all the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method in an electronic device, the methodcomprising: detecting, with one or more processors, a communicationdevice electronically in communication with both: a content presentationcompanion device operating as a primary display for the electronicdevice; and an augmented reality companion device; detecting, with oneor more sensors, multiple persons being present within an environment ofthe electronic device while the content presentation companion device isoperating as the primary display for the electronic device; causing, bythe one or more processors, the communication device to deliver acontent offering to the content presentation companion device forpresentation to the environment; redirecting, with the one or moreprocessors, an event notification intended for presentation on theprimary display of the electronic device to the augmented realitycompanion device while the multiple persons are in the environment;further comprising determining, with the one or more processors, whetherthe event notification is related to the content offering and whetherthe event notification would be of interest to every person of themultiple persons present in the environment, wherein the redirecting isomitted only when the event notification is both related to the contentoffering and likely of interest to every person of the multiple personspresent in the environment.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein theredirecting occurs while the communication device delivers the contentoffering to the content presentation companion device.
 3. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the content offering comprises a sporting event and theevent notification comprises a score update or a player injury update.4. The method of claim 1, wherein the event notification comprises asubtitle associated with the content offering.
 5. The method of claim 1,further comprising identifying, with the one or more sensors, one personof the multiple persons within the environment as an authorized user ofthe electronic device, wherein the redirecting occurs when theauthorized user of the electronic device is within the environment. 6.The method of claim 1, further comprising detecting, with the one ormore sensors, an authorized user of the electronic device operating theaugmented reality companion device, wherein the redirecting occurs whenthe authorized user is operating the augmented reality companion device.7. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining, with the oneor more processors, an intended recipient of the event notification,wherein the redirecting occurs when an authorized user is the intendedrecipient of the event notification.
 8. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising determining, with the one or more processors, an eventnotification type associated with the event notification, wherein theredirecting occurs when the event notification type is within apredefined event notification type class.
 9. The method of claim 8,wherein the predefined event notification type class is defined by apreconfigured list of user selected event notification types storedwithin a memory of the electronic device.
 10. An electronic device,comprising: a communication device electronically communicating with acontent presentation companion device operating as a primary display forthe electronic device and an augmented reality companion device anddelivering a content offering to the content presentation companiondevice for presentation to an environment of the electronic device; oneor more sensors detecting multiple persons within the environment of theelectronic device while the content presentation companion deviceoperates as the primary display for the electronic device; and one ormore processors redirecting an event notification intended forpresentation on the primary display to the augmented reality companiondevice while both: the content presentation companion device operates asthe primary display for the electronic device; and the multiple personsare within the environment of the electronic device; unless the one ormore processors determine the event notification is both related to thecontent offering and the event notification would likely be of interestto every person of the multiple persons present in the environment,wherein the one or more processors omit the redirecting of the eventnotification.
 11. The electronic device of claim 10, wherein the one ormore processors redirection the event notification to the augmentedreality companion device when the one or more sensors detect an owner ofthe electronic device among the multiple persons within the environment.12. The electronic device of claim 10, the one or more processorsredirecting the event notification to the augmented reality companiondevice when an owner of the electronic device is the only person of themultiple persons who is an intended recipient of the event notification.13. The electronic device of claim 10, the one or more processorsredirecting the event notification when the event notification is of apredefined event notification type.
 14. The electronic device of claim13, further comprising a memory operable with the one or moreprocessors, wherein the predefined event notification type is defined byone a preconfigured list of user selected event notification typesstored within a memory of the electronic device.
 15. The electronicdevice of claim 10, the event notification comprising one or moresubtitles associated with a content offering.
 16. The electronic deviceof claim 10, the event notification comprising one of an applicationgenerated event notification or incoming electronic communication eventnotification.
 17. A system, comprising: an electronic device comprisingone or more sensors, a communication device, and one or more processors;a content presentation companion device electronically in communicationwith the electronic device and operating as a primary display for theelectronic device; and an augmented reality companion device incommunication with the electronic device; the one or more processorscausing the communication device to deliver a content offering to thecontent presentation companion device for presentation to an environmentof the electronic device, redirecting an event notification from thecontent presentation companion device to the augmented reality companiondevice when at least one predefined condition is met, the at least onepredefined condition comprising the one or more sensors detectingmultiple persons consuming the content offering within the environmentof the electronic device, and omitting the redirecting when one or moreprocessors determine that the event notification is both related to thecontent offering and the event notification is likely to be of interestto every person of the multiple persons present in the environment. 18.The system of claim 17, the at least one predefined condition furthercomprising the one or more sensors identifying an owner of theelectronic device among the multiple persons.
 19. The system of claim18, the at least one predefined condition further comprising the one ormore sensors identifying the owner of the electronic device operatingthe augmented reality companion device.
 20. The system of claim 19, theat least one predefined condition further comprising the one or moreprocessors determining that the owner of the electronic device is theonly person of the multiple persons to whom the event notification isdirected.